The city of Vernon’s newly appointed Finance Director William F. Fox, pictured right, took a public oath of office during the city council meeting on Tuesday. (EGP photo by Nancy Martinez)

After an extensive hiring process that included multiple screenings and interviews, the city of Vernon chose William F. Fox to serve as its new finance director.

Fox was officially appointed late last month but took the oath of office during the city’s council meeting on Jan. 8.

“I am very gratified for the opportunity to work with the city of Vernon, both the businesses and the residents,” Fox told EGP. “I hope that I can deliver and give them quality financial reporting and help them in identifying and implementing financial opportunities to keep the city strong and vibrant.”

The city used a recruiting firm to indentify and interview applicants. The city council then interviewed the three highest-ranking candidates at a special council meeting on Dec. 6, where the city’s chamber of commerce also participated on the interview panel.

City Administrator Mark Whitworth introduced Fox at the city council meeting and said the new finance director had “quite a background”.

“His credentials are impeccable,” Whitworth told the audience. “As we build out our team we’re adding these people that really make a difference.”

Fox was appointed to the position on Dec. 21; his contract runs through Dec. 21, 2015.

Fox has spent most of his career in Southern California, and has worked for the Southern California Edison Company and the city of Glendale. He worked for the Las Vegas Valley Water District before being hired by Vernon.

“I’m glad to be back home to Southern California where I grew up, went to school and spent most of my life,” Fox said.